Israelis honor disabled veterans with a parade

Sunday in Israel marked The national day for disabled veteran appreciation. This is the second year that the recognition day is marked by the "Nefesh Ahat" (Hebrew for “One Soul”) governmental policy reforms, which are designed to improve the treatment of disabled IDF vets, with an emphasis on those dealing with PTSD.

During most of Israel's existence, PTSD and all other "shell-shock" illnesses were widely overlooked, rarely receiving government aid. The second decade of the 21st century has thankfully brought new public interest on the matter, leading to many policies benefiting veterans.

In the past year, the Rehabilitation Division treated 60,000 disabled soldiers - the highest number in Israeli history. "On this day we wish to honor the dedication, volunteerism, and sacrifice for Israel's security - and above all to say that we are here with you, with great love and an uncompromising commitment to rehabilitation, accompaniment, and support," said IDF Major General Yaniv Asor.

The Ministry of Defense also made several significant changes in the treatment of wounded veterans. Among other things, as part of the reform, a free support and assistance system was launched, the medical resources were expanded to rehabilitation hospitals, dedicated foundations were established for those dealing with post-trauma and cultural activities were designed to alleviate loneliness for IDF veterans.

"The commemoration of the Day for the Wounded of Israel's security systems, a national day, emphasizes the deep commitment of Israeli society to those who defended their bodies and souls for the sake of the country's security," said Deputy Director and Head of the Rehabilitation Division at the Ministry of Defense, Limor Luria. 

"The Ministry of Defense operates within the framework of the 'Nefesh Ahat' reform, in collaboration with the IDF Disabled People's Organization and the IDF with the aim of expanding the assistance provided to the wounded of Israel's systems and improving the service for them. We will continue to work with all our might for the wounded, thanks to whom we all live in the country safely."

The Chairman of the IDF Organization for the Disabled, Idan Kaliman, spoke about the significant progress made in the treatment of the disabled, and the long road that still remains: "In our beloved country live nearly 60,000 wounded and injured Israeli systems who face day-to-day, bravely and courageously, with the physical and mental injuries and struggle with challenges that are sometimes unbearably difficult. 

Kaliman further added, “this day, the day of appreciation, is the day of the year when we all stop to recognize and cherish those who sacrificed their bodies and souls for the security of the State of Israel and its citizens."

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